Public participation, artisanal fishers, and the implantation of a coastal megaproject

Abstract

The present study seeks to identify the perceptions of the marine artisanal fishers of the community of Farol de São Tomé in the municipality of Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil, regarding the political decision-making process regulating the implantation of the Açu Superport Industrial Complex (ASIC). The marine artisanal fishery in this community may be threatened by the size and scope of the ASIC, which is to be the largest industrial port complex in Latin America. Data were gathered through interviews with open-ended questions conducted among 13 active marine fishers within the community of Farol de São Tomé. The results of the study indicate that although the fishers desired participation in the ASIC's licensing process, there were insufficient opportunities for such participation and that fishers are suspicious of the motives guiding decisions affecting their region. Fishers also predict adverse changes to their activities. In order to debate operational questions relating to the ASIC we recommend that public hearings be held in the community of Farol de São Tomé.